Lineup Prep: Wild Card Weekend

Wed Jan 11 9:16am ET
By JEFF PAUR
Sr Fantasy Writer

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Kittle can keep it going this week


More and more fantasy owners are playing in playoff leagues, and for good reason. They are a lot of fun contests and leagues out there these days. We run several on our site. Your fantasy leagues don’t have to come to an end because the regular season is over. I highly suggest getting involved in a league if you can. It is a great way to get your fantasy fix a little longer. Plus, there are a lot of interesting formats for leagues, giving you a different fantasy dynamic than during the regular season. So we’ll continue with this column throughout the playoffs, getting you ready for your games each week. 

With that said, here are my random thoughts for the week. . . . .

I’m really excited to watch the Jaguars this weekend. They are a team on the rise with a lot of top young talent. It will be interesting to see how they play on the big stage. Trevor Lawrence was a little shaky last week, so I’m wondering how he handles things this weekend. These playoff games can vault a players confidence in a hurry. I’m hoping Lawrence comes up big and balls out, keeping his progress going forward. 

It really seems like the knee injury Lamar Jacksons suffered is pretty serious and he is in real doubt to play this week. You also have to wonder if the contract situation is playing into this at all for Jackson. Maybe he doesn’t want to risk anything without a long-term deal signed. Who knows? Either way, the Ravens have next to no chance to win that game this weekend if Jackson can’t play. 

Here is to hoping the Bears use that first round pick this year to get the help that Justin Fields needs. Their offensive line needs upgrades and the passing game needs a lot of help at receiver. Hopefully, they can turn that top pick into a lot more picks to get Fields help. This is a big offseason for the Bears. I will be anxious to see how they handle it all.

I really do wonder how much of a negative impact Nathaniel Hackett had on Russell Wilson. He sure looked like a different quarterback after Hackett was fired late in the year. Maybe we shouldn’t give up on him just yet. The Broncos do have a lot of weapons in the passing game, so Wilson has a high ceiling if he can get his game back. Wilson surely will be a polarizing fantasy figure next season. I might be in on him for the right price, though. 

I’m having a hard time deciding on the representatives for the Super Bowl this year. The AFC is really tough with the Bills, Chiefs and Bengals as legit contenders to go all the way. And I even think the Chargers are talented enough to make a run. So I really think four teams could go the Super Bowl out of the AFC. The NFC isn’t quite as tough in my view, mainly because the Vikings and Cowboys are limping into the playoffs. That leaves the Eagles and 49ers as the obvious choices. And it is hard to bet against the 49ers right now with that team playing so well. The big concern for me is Brock Purdy. Can he make the big play if called upon? So I say this with little conviction, I will go with the Bills and Eagles as the winner of their conferences. We’ll see how that works out!

News and Notes: Reports are the Cardinals plan to trade receiver DeAndre Hopkins this offseason. He is getting older and has battled injury the last few seasons, but could be a big help to a receiver needy team. . . . .The Ravens signed linebacker Roquan Smith to a five-year, 100 million dollar extensions on Tuesday. Smith is  now a mainstay in the Ravens defense for years to come.

HOT PLAYS

George Kittle, TE, 49ers. It took a little time but Kittle is red hot right now. He has touchdowns four straight games and multiple scores three of those games. And one of those games came against the Seahawks, who he plays this week. Kittle had four catches for 93 yards and two scores against the Seahawks in Week 15. Seattle has struggled against the tight end all year. The Seahawks allow the second most fantasy points to tight ends. Kittle is setup for a big game in this one. 

Travis Etienne, RB, Jaguars. Etienne struggled his last game, rushing seven time for just 17 yards. but that was against a good Titans rush defense. He had at least 13 fantasy points three straight before last week. And Etienne had 100-yard rushing games two his last three before Week 18. He can get it going again this week against the Chargers. The Chargers allow the seventh most fantasy points to running backs and rank 28th overall against the rush. 

Chris Godwin, WR, Bucs. Godwin topped 100 receptions for the first time in his career this season. And this was a year he was coming off a torn ACL and missed a couple games because of injury. He is clearly healthy and the top target in this passing game. He has at least five receptions 14 straight games. Look for him to keep it going in the Bucs playoff opener. The Cowboys have had issues stopping the pass, so look for Godwin to get a workout. Dallas allows the fifth most fantasy points to receivers. 

COLD PLAYS 

Dak Prescott, QB, Cowboys. Prescott is coming off arguably his worst game of the season. He was just 14-of-37 for 128 yards and a touchdown against the Commander last week. It was an alarming performance as the Cowboys head into the playoffs. And he plays a Bucs team on the road that is ninth overall against the pass to open things. It might be another long day for Prescott in this matchup.  

Kenneth Walker, RB, Seahawks. Walker had a great rookie season, emerging as the lead back and producing big in that role. He had three straight 100-yard games to end his season. But the game before that streak was against the 49ers, a game he ran 12 times for just 47 yards. It might be more of the same this week against a very good San Francisco defense. The 49ers are second overall against the run and allow the fewest fantasy points to running backs this year. 

Tua Tagovailoa or whoever plays QB for the Dolphins. Tagovailoa really cooled off down the stretch before his latest concussion. He had few than 20 fantasy points four of his last five games. He also plays the Bills this week, a team he scored about 33 fantasy points against in two games this year. Buffalo allows the fewest fantasy points to quarterbacks for the season. Tagovailoa or whoever starts for the Dolphins at quarterback this week is going to be a risk for fantasy owners. 

SLEEPERS

Daniel Jones, QB, Giants. Jones quietly put together a very good season. He took a big step forward this year in an offense that really lacks weapons in the passing game. Despite that, Jones was 12th overall in fantasy quarterback scoring. He had 25-plus fantasy points two straight games to end his season and topped 20 points four of his last five. He has a great matchup to produce in his playoff debut. The Vikings have struggled against the pass all season, allowing the fifth most fantasy points to quarterbacks. Minnesota is just 31st overall against the pass, allowing 265.6-passing yards per game. 

James Cook, RB, Bills. Cook has enjoyed a bit of an up and down rookie season, but is playing his best football right now. He has double-digit fantasy points three of his last five games. Don’t discount him to have a big game or two in the playoffs. You could see the Bills getting up big in this one, running out the clock late in the game. This could mean more touches for Cook, who might be playing better than Devin Singletary right now. The Dolphins are solid against the run but have allowed 15-rushing touchdowns this season, which also bodes well for Cook. 

Richie James, WR, Giants. James has emerged as the top receiver for the Giants. He has at least seven receptions three of four games. He has topped 17 fantasy points three of those games. He also has at least 13 fantasy points five of seven. He is getting it done on a weekly basis. And he gets a bad Vikings secondary this week. Minnesota allows the second most fantasy points to receivers. James is setup to top double-digit fantasy points once again. 

High/Low Scoring Games

Each week we will take a look at some of the high and low scoring games for the coming week. In high scoring affairs, get your marginal players on those teams in your lineup to take advantage of the possible points barrage. And in the low scoring games, keep those marginal players on the bench and make sure to have your defenses involved in those contests.

High Scoring Games: Chargers/Jaguars, Giants/Vikings.

Low Scoring Games: Cowboys/Bucs.

Jeff Paur is a two-time finalist for FSWA Fantasy Football Writer of the Year and won the FSWA award for Best Fantasy Football Article on the Web in 2011. He also was the most accurate expert in 2012, winning the FSTA Fantasy Football Accuracy Award. If you have any questions for Jeff, email him at jeff@rtsports.com. Follow Jeff on Twitter @jeffpaur.

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Player Notes
J.K. Dobbins Jul 8 1:20pm CT
J.K. Dobbins

According to Broncos beat writer Cody Roark of Mike High Sports, recently acquired running back J.K. Dobbins "will likely be the starter" to open the 2025 campaign. Dobbins came back from a brutal run of injuries, including a torn Achilles, to rush for 905 yards and nine touchdowns for the Los Angeles Chargers last season. The Broncos signed him to a one-year deal following the 2025 NFL Draft. During the draft, the organization selected UCF running back RJ Harvey in the second round, and Roark said he will also have an extensive role. While this only adds more confusion to what could be a complicated backfield, early-offseason beat reports and camp information should be taken with a grain of salt. Both Broncos running backs have upside, but Harvey should be viewed as the high-ceiling pick. After all, Dobbins averaged just 3.8 yards per carry after Weeks 1 and 2 a season ago.

From RotoBaller

Darren Waller Jul 8 1:10pm CT
Darren Waller

The Miami Dolphins have officially agreed to send a 2026 sixth-round draft selection in exchange for former New York Giants tight end Darren Waller and a conditional 2027 seventh-round pick, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. This trade seemingly came out of nowhere, directly following the announcement that Miami had traded Pro Bowl tight end Jonnu Smith to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Waller posted back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons in 2019 and 2020, but he did not eclipse 700 yards in 2021, 2022, and 2023 before taking the 2024 season off. While he should not be expected to be a high-end TE1, the tight end spot is always shallow, meaning he could find his way onto the fantasy football radar in 2025. A mid-range TE2 or even low-end TE1 season is not out of the realm of possibilities. Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle present fierce target competition, but they also open the middle of the field up with their explosive skill sets.

From RotoBaller

JT Woods Jul 8 1:10pm CT
JT Woods

The Seattle Seahawks released defensive back JT Woods on Monday, according to NFL.com. Woods, a former third-round selection in the 2022 NFL Draft out of Baylor, played his first two seasons with the Los Angeles Chargers, collecting eight tackles in 13 games. He has not appeared in a regular-season or postseason contest since 2023 but has spent time with the Philadelphia Eagles, Chicago Bears, and Seahawks offseason rosters and practice squads. The 25-year-old hasn't been able to stick on a roster to this point, so he's unlikely to make an NFL impact anytime soon.

From RotoBaller

Asante Samuel Jr. Jul 8 1:00pm CT
Asante Samuel Jr.

The Miami Dolphins have reached out to free-agent cornerback Asante Samuel Jr., according to the Miami Herald. The organization dealt All-Pro cornerback Jalen Ramsey to the Pittsburgh Steelers in exchange for All-Pro and former Dolphins safety Minkah Fitzpatrick last week, so they are in the market for a veteran corner. Samuel was a second-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft out of Florida State by the Los Angeles Chargers. In 50 career games, he tallied 176 tackles (148 solo), 37 pass deflections, six interceptions, and one fumble recovery. A significant shoulder injury limited the 25-year-old to just four games in 2024.

From RotoBaller

Dak Prescott Jul 8 12:50pm CT
Dak Prescott

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (hamstring) said he will be full-go in training camp, pending a final check-in with team doctors following a significant hamstring injury that cost him nine missed games in 2024. The veteran, entering his 10th NFL season, participated in all drills this offseason and should be more than ready to go by Week 1 of the 2025 campaign. Dallas added former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens this offseason, and Prescott is confident the two will get on the same page quickly. While Prescott's injury concerns are noteworthy, the 31-year-old could be undervalued at his mid-level QB2 average draft position. Dallas is likely to have another weak rushing attack in 2025, and Prescott should have several spike weeks due to the presence of Pickens and All-Pro wideout CeeDee Lamb.

From RotoBaller

Nyheim Hines Jul 8 12:50pm CT
Nyheim Hines

Veteran free-agent running back Nyheim Hines, who suffered a torn ACL in a jet-ski accident nearly two years ago, is seeking a return to the NFL, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. The former fourth-round pick by the Indianapolis Colts in 2018 out of NC State posted 1,202 rushing yards, 1,778 receiving yards, and 18 total touchdowns through his first 81 career games with Indy and the Buffalo Bills. Hines spent last season on the Cleveland Browns roster but did not appear in a game after landing on the reserve/non-football injury list. The 28-year-old could have a tough path back toward meaningful NFL action, but his pass-catching skill set and veteran presence could make him an appealing acquisition for one of the 32 franchises.

From RotoBaller

Baker Mayfield Jul 7 9:03pm CT
Baker Mayfield

Tampa Bay Buccaneers QB Baker Mayfield threw 17 touchdowns against the blitz during the 2024 season.

Fantasy Spin: Mayfield tied for second in the NFL with 41 touchdowns this last season and probably will be asked to throw a lot again this upcoming season. He will have Emeka Egbuka in addition to other pass catchers coming back this upcoming season and can be a starting option in all fantasy leagues.

From TheHuddle

Darren Waller Jul 7 7:03pm CT
Darren Waller

Miami Dolphins TE Darren Waller has played in an offensive system similar to head coach Mike McDaniel's system and should be able to pick up the offense relatively quickly, in the opinion of The Miami Herald's Kaitlyn Pohly.

Fantasy Spin: Waller has not played since the 2023 season, so it may take him some time to get back into game shape. He seems to be on track to be the starting tight end for the Dolphins and should have the chance to earn a solid role in the passing game. He probably should be considered a No. 2 tight end at this point with a chance to become a starting fantasy option during the season.

From TheHuddle

Amon-Ra St. Brown Jul 7 2:23pm CT
Amon-Ra St. Brown

Detroit Lions WR Amon-Ra St. Brown ran 240 routes from the slot with 39 receptions (on 56 targets) for 441 yards and five touchdowns in 2024. However, he ran 252 routes out wide, which led to 67 receptions (on 75 targets) for 740 yards and five touchdowns.

Fantasy Spin: This should serve as a reminder that St. Brown is #goodatfootball. There has been some discussion about St. Brown dropping from the elite fantasy receiver ranks in 2025 - due in part to the potential that he might lose some snaps in the slot - following the departure of former offensive coordinator Ben Johnson. While the fifth-year wideout may see his production drop off a bit this season, the aforementioned stats clearly suggest it is unlikely to happen because of lining up more often outside.

From TheHuddle

Nyheim Hines Jul 7 2:13pm CT
Nyheim Hines

Free-agent RB Nyheim Hines (knee) believes his knee is ready for a return to action almost two years to the date he tore his anterior cruciate ligament in a jet-ski accident, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.

From TheHuddle

Hunter Henry Jul 6 8:43pm CT
Hunter Henry

New England Patriots TE Hunter Henry ranked eight or better in catches, yards and targets among tight ends in 2024, but his two touchdowns ranked 26th at the position.

Fantasy Spin: Henry emerged as one of Drake Maye's favorite targets last season, and he should have a similar role in 2025. Given his overall usage, don't be surprised if he has a few more trips to the end zone. He could finish as a low-end TE1.

From TheHuddle

T.J. Watt Jul 6 7:50pm CT
T.J. Watt

According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, the Pittsburgh Steelers and linebacker T.J. Watt aren't close to resolving the ongoing contract dispute. The team wants to keep him. However, there are still some glaring issues regarding a new deal, specifically, length and guaranteed money. The 30-year-old is still a top defensive option despite closing in on a decade of service in the National Football League, most recently finishing the 2024 campaign with 11.5 sacks while totaling 61 tackles. With training camp commencing in a few weeks, there is a greater sense of urgency for a deal to get done. If Watt isn't on the field come Week 1, it won't be an ideal scenario for a Steelers defense that is projected to be one of the most potent fantasy units in 2025.

From RotoBaller

Terry McLaurin Jul 6 7:30pm CT
Terry McLaurin

According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin is still "not happy" with where things stand regarding a new contract. This situation has been ongoing for months, so this is nothing new. Still, with training camp right around the corner, the franchise is running a greater risk of a holdout situation if the wideout doesn't get a pay increase. He is coming off his best season since entering the National Football League, ending the 2024 campaign with 1,096 yards and 13 touchdowns off 82 receptions. McLaurin is currently in line to make $15.5 million this season. However, it will presumably take well over $30 million a year to retain his services moving forward. If McLaurin isn't on the field, it won't be good news for Jayden Daniels, the 2024 NFL Rookie of the Year. McLaurin's potential absence from training camp could also cause his fantasy stock to fall.

From RotoBaller

KaVontae Turpin Jul 6 2:30pm CT
KaVontae Turpin

NBCSports.com's Mike Florio reports that Dallas Cowboys wide receiver/kick returner KaVontae Turpin was arrested early Sunday morning on two misdemeanor charges. Turpin faces charges for possession of marijuana and unlawful carrying of a weapon, Florio notes. Not what you want to see. The TCU product was an impactful asset for the Cowboys last season -- particularly in the return game, which garnered him a Pro-Bowl selection. It's unclear whether he'll face repercussions for his crimes, considering the nature of the charges. However, both instances could "trigger potential scrutiny under NFL policies," as Florio states. The 28-year-old's punishment, if any, may not be severe, but what happened undoubtedly diminishes his value currently. It may take some time before we receive a definitive outcome.

From RotoBaller

Theo Johnson Jul 6 11:30am CT
Theo Johnson

New York Giants tight end Theo Johnson (foot) is hoping the work put in during the offseason will keep him healthy throughout the 2025 campaign. "The big thing for me this year is I want to play 17 games," said Johnson on the Giants Huddle podcast. "That's the number one priority. I've been taking my recovery and my health, what I'm putting in my body and everything, more serious than I ever have." The 24-year-old wasn't a consistent fantasy producer last season. However, he demonstrated some signs of growth and would total 29 catches for 331 yards and one touchdown before sustaining a season-ending foot injury in November. Johnson has more work to do to earn additional snaps, although it appears he has the edge over Greg Dulcich, Daniel Bellinger, among others, to enter Week 1 as the No. 1 tight end on the depth chart. Still, he has a way to go before establishing himself as a week-to-week fantasy starter.

From RotoBaller

Jermaine Burton Jul 6 11:00am CT
Jermaine Burton

Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Jermaine Burton continues to make a positive impression on the coaching staff. Head coach Zac Taylor has already touted the wideout's improved growth and maturity this offseason. However, it didn't end there, with offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher being the latest member of the staff to comment on Burton's personal development. "He's got a good look in his eye," stated Pitcher. "He's putting the time in." The 24-year-old, selected with the No. 80 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, had a forgettable rookie campaign, amassing only four catches (14 targets) for 107 yards. He was also held out of three contests while failing to find the end zone. Without question, Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Chase Brown will each command attention from quarterback Joe Burrow. Tight end Mike Gesicki should also be involved. Still, Burton has a chance to climb the depth chart, which could result in fewer snaps for Andrei Iosivas. With that said, Burton has a way to go before earning the trust of fantasy managers, although he's worth monitoring heading into Week 1. His ceiling could rise even more if Chase, Higgins, or Iosivas get injured at some point during the season, giving him streaming potential.

From RotoBaller

Cam Ward Jul 5 10:10pm CT
Cam Ward

Tennessee Titans quarterback Cam Ward apparently isn't expecting to be handed the reigns heading into his inaugural campaign. "Cam's not gonna expect it to just be given to him," said offensive tackle JC Latham while speaking of the competition between the rookie and Will Levis. "Will's not just gonna sit over here and say, 'oh, we drafted him, go ahead take it.' Like both of them taking the challenge of trying to really earn the spot and really fight for the spot. It's made them better." Ward, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, has already received praise, especially for his work ethic and leadership. However, it's unknown if his efforts will earn him the right to take over under center come Week 1. With that in mind, Ward's redraft stock isn't as favorable even if he jumps to the top of the depth chart, considering he'll presumably have some growing pains in his first season. On the other hand, he'll likely be the first quarterback off the board in most rookie drafts, even more so for dynasty managers who are willing to be patient as it relates to his development.

From RotoBaller

Chase Claypool Jul 5 9:40pm CT
Chase Claypool

Free-agent wide receiver Chase Claypool (toe) is hoping to sign with an NFL team. The 2020 No. 49 overall pick was spectacular as a rookie, amassing 62 catches for 873 yards and 11 touchdowns. Since then, he hasn't been as productive. finding the end zone only six times. After stops in Pittsburgh, Chicago, and Miami, Claypool was in line to suit up for the Buffalo Bills heading into the 2024 campaign. Unfortunately, he tore a ligament and tendon in his toe before eventually being released by the team. With the injury behind Claypool, he is eager to get back on the field while claiming to be stronger and faster than ever. "I am back to being the strongest and fastest I've ever been and couldn't be more excited to step back out on the field and let my actions speak for themselves," said the 26-year-old. "I deeply and truly believe that the pieces will align, and I will work my way into the position to show off what's been suppressed these last two years." It appears he is more motivated than ever. Although Claypool should see attention from fantasy managers if he signs with a club, he could have a tough time getting close to the level of production he had in his inaugural year. Still, the wideout is worth monitoring in case he ends up inking a deal with a team where he'll have the opportunity to get involved.

From RotoBaller

Christian Kirk Jul 5 8:23pm CT
Christian Kirk

Houston Texans WR Christian Kirk looked like a 'safety blanket' for QB C.J. Stroud during minicamp, according to DJ Bien-Aime II of ESPN.com.

Fantasy Spin: Although the Texans drafted a pair of rookie receivers, Kirk's experience could make him the No. 2 option in the passing attack in 2025, especially if he builds chemistry with Stroud. Kirk's long-term fit in Houston is questionable, but at least for this season, he has WR4 potential.

From TheHuddle

LaJohntay Wester Jul 5 2:20pm CT
LaJohntay Wester

In a recent episode of the 'Locked On Ravens' podcast, former Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Qadry Ismail shared his thoughts on sixth-round rookie wideout LaJohntay Wester, noting he could become a valuable weapon for quarterback Lamar Jackson. Wester reportedly took well to punt returns during OTAs, and also made a few plays in the passing game that caught the eye of the former athlete. Ismail also noted that Wester "hasn't looked overwhelmed by anything thrown at him." The 23-year-old broke out during his final season with Florida Atlantic in 2023 (108/1,168/8) but took a slight step back upon his transfer to Colorado in 2024. Baltimore's pass-catching corps isn't one that projects to have much vacant playing time, but the rookie seems bound for at least a role on special teams. He's little more than a deep dynasty stash currently.

From RotoBaller